Last summer I stopped at a roadside stand with a crudely lettered sign that read "Sweet Texas watermelons" and bought a Texas yellow, upon friends' recommendations. It was great, and I tossed some leavings in the raised bed and thought no more about it. This past June, I noticed a single melon-like sprout in the bed and decided to let it grow to see what it might be. Well it was sure enough a watermelon and the vine gave this one big fruit. Picked, washed and chilled it a couple of days ago, and cracked it open last night. Turned out to be 20 pounds of wonderfully ripe Texas yellow. Man, what a great flavor. I may never grow a watermelon again and just let this be my one crowning success as a melon farmer!


fullsizeoutput_1621 by ComeWatson, on Flickr

fullsizeoutput_1622 by ComeWatson, on Flickr

Awesome! I have not had much luck with melons to date. May try them again next year once I finish with my garden upgrade to all wicking tubs.

I have heard that melon rind makes for good pickles too.

What a cool outcome! I bet that you threw the remains back in the same place hoping for more next year, right?!

I am saving seed from this baby. Prolly have enough to share some if anyone wants to try them.

They are so good. I remember hunting near a patch and cracking some over on the tailgate as a kid.

I have not had any luck with melons where I live as they need a more sandy soil + mine is more alkaline. It does grow good tomatoes though.